Yellowknife, N.W.T. - At least one Yellowknife resident believes significant changes need to be made to what she calls an outdated dog bylaw.

Cecille Beemer said there is little to no protection for home owners or animals in the current bylaw and it can cause friction among neighbours.

Speaking at city council on May 14, Beemer said her situation has become unbearable.

"Since 2004 our neighbours have keep anywhere from two to seven large dogs in their backyard. These dogs are left outside, unattended for an extended periods of time, barking and the property is often not cleaned on a regular basis and smells strongly of feces and urine," said Beemer.

Beemer said she first went to the city in September 2010 about the problem  and administration told her they would investigate changes to the bylaw, but failed to follow up.

She said the city is doing things all wrong.

"The city is encouraging disputes between neighbours as a result of their lack of action.. We have to keep a log: how often, how long [and] document the condition. Why should this be our responsibility? Put the onus where it belongs on the owner of the animal," said Beemer.

Council has referred the matter to administration, who will follow up by the end of the month.

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